Power To The People: VW Golf R With Performance Pack Nudges 170 Mph

Depending on how much you’re willing to spend on a Volkswagen Golf R, you can have it with a multitude of optional extras.

Among them is the Performance Pack, which brings upgraded brakes, a new tailgate-mounted spoiler and the ability to reach a 270 km/h (168 mph) top speed.

For the right sum, Volkswagen will throw in a titanium exhaust system, too, by the specialists at Akrapovic, which is said to create “completely new acoustics” and also shaves a few kilograms from the car’s total weight.

These complement an extensive list of features, from the infotainment system with optional gesture control, to the Active Info Display digital instrument cluster.

Regardless of the budget, all MK7 Golf Rs are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The four-pot was recently de-tuned by 10 PS (10 hp / 7 kW) in Europe, in order to meet the stringer WLTP requirements.

Thus, the hot hatch’s mill now produces 300 PS (296 hp / 221 kW). It rockets it to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just a little over 5 seconds when mated to the six-speed manual gearbox, or under 5 seconds when fitted with the dual-clutch auto.

As for the model depicted on film below, it’s the facelifted version from the pre-WLTP era. This means that its 2.0-liter TSI unit makes 310 PS (306 hp / 228 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It’s also been equipped with the Akrapovic exhaust and celebrates its greatness by going all the way to an indicated 269 km/h (167 mph).